Help The Mekons finish their documentary

The Mekons, a first wave punk rock group turned folk ensemble, are at least partially based in Chicago (Sally Timms and Jon Langford, specifically) and are the subject of a documentary by NY filmmaker Joe Angio. The film, Revenge Of The Mekons, tells the story of the outspoken band’s unusual evolution and gives a glimpse behind the curtain into its creative process, as well as the band’s work as social justice advocates. The band has set up a Kickstarter page to help fund the huge costs associated with the film’s production and promotion.

Filming has nearly finished and the editing process is set to start soon, which is where Kickstarter comes into the picture. In order to finish production of the film and begin enrolling in film festivals, Angio and The Mekons are seeking donations in exchange for original artwork, records, and more. Among the more interesting rewards are books by Luc Sante, Greil Marcus, and Jonathan Franzen (all signed by the authors and, for the most part, already claimed by excitable book collectors/donors) and executive producer credits (for those feeling especially generous). The band is already nearly a quarter of the way to its $20,000 goal, which must be reached by Friday, Dec. 17.